The Big Cactus. The Big Aristotle. Shaq Attack. Shaq Diesel. Superman. So many nicknames things could get a little confusing. His larger than life character may be known by many names but Shaquille’s greatness on the court was clear as LA weather. Three Championships, Three Finals MVPs in purple and gold = without a doubt headed to the Hall of Fame next year (Allen Iverson will probably join him as a first ballot selection).

Before he enjoys being inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and gives what will probably be an extremely entertaining acceptance speech, the Los Angeles Lakers have revealed plans to memorialize the dominant center with a statue at Staples Center.

Lakers President and Co-Owner Jeanie Buss stated, “We look forward to having Shaq join the other legends who have been honored with statues at STAPLES Center. He is a giant not only in size, but also in stature and in what he accomplished as a Laker. Shaq literally broke the ground for the site, and was hugely responsible for not only getting STAPLES Center built, but for making it one of the most successful and famous arenas in the world. It’s an honor that is well deserved.”

There is no question as to whether or not he deserves the honor, Shaquille O’Neal was one of the greatest basketball players to ever touch the hardwood and the most dominant big man many will ever witness in their lifetime. Congrats Big Fella!